Chapter III THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES IN THE WAR OF THE REVOLUTION

"MANY brave men," says an ancient writer, "lived before the days of Agamemnon, but unhonored by the bard and disregarded by the historian, their names have perished and their deeds are unknown." This observation if applied now to the times of the Revolution, would accord with truth as exactly as it did when first uttered with respect to the ages of the early world. It seems to be among the hard condi-tions of our fate that those who play subordinate parts in the drama of life, however ably they may act, should soon be consigned to oblivion; that the many cannot be long remem-bered; and that in war especially, although honors and tri-umphs reward the few who become conspicuous in command, the great multitude of the deserving are left to seek their recompense in the cold satisfaction of having discharged their duty. In our particular commonwealth, those who during the great contest did the state good service, were numerous, but for the most part, their names have not been recorded, and their actions lost in the passing crowd of events, have almost disappeared. I have never felt more saddened at this injus-tice of fame, than when contemplating the merits of a class of men, who during the war of American Independence, steadily upheld "the good cause," acting sometimes as guides to the Continental and combined armies while operating in the adjacent county of Westchester, and sometimes as volunteers, but who in our days are scarcely remembered. In the latter part of 1775, and the beginning of the follow-ing year, the sons of such of the Westchester farmers as ear-nestly favored the proceedings of the Continental Congress, formed themselves into voluntary companies of horse and

I have never felt more saddened at this injus-tice of fame, than when contemplating the merits of a class of men, who during the war of American Independence, steadily upheld "the good cause," acting sometimes as guides to the Continental and combined armies while operating in the adjacent county of Westchester, and sometimes as volunteers, but who in our days are scarcely remembered. In the latter part of 1775, and the beginning of the follow-ing year, the sons of such of the Westchester farmers as ear-nestly favored the proceedings of the Continental Congress, formed themselves into voluntary companies of horse and

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 67 foot, generally choosing their own officers. Travels con-nected with business and excursions of pleasure, had given then an accurate knowledge of the roads that traversed their native district, and frequent hunting parties, to which they were much accustomed, had made them acquainted with the hills, passes, and more unfrequented localities. In the early operations of the American forces in Westchester, when mili-tary conductors became necessary, they were sought for among the farmers of Westchester. The most intelligent were selected for the purpose and formed into a body called the "Westchester Guides." The greater part of them continued in the public service while the war lasted. When not acting as guides, they were employed as superintendents of forage or in some other capacity. In dangerous excursions they were always ready to take the lead, being admirably adapted for conducing partisan movements by enterprise, courage, skill in the use of their weapons, sound judgment, and topo-graphical knowledge of the country. In the attacks upon the British outposts particularly dur-ing the last years of the war, the American commanders were very often governed in their proceedings by the suggestions that came from these native strategists, and when in danger of capture, as the upper forces often were when down in small parties, from that rapidity of pursuit which the enemy were always enabled to make use of, in consequence of the concen-tration of their light troops along Harlem River, from Mor-risiana to Kingsbridge, it was not unusual for someone of the guides to take upon himself the entire direction of the retiring detachment, during the continuance of its retreat.

In the attacks upon the British outposts particularly dur-ing the last years of the war, the American commanders were very often governed in their proceedings by the suggestions that came from these native strategists, and when in danger of capture, as the upper forces often were when down in small parties, from that rapidity of pursuit which the enemy were always enabled to make use of, in consequence of the concen-tration of their light troops along Harlem River, from Mor-risiana to Kingsbridge, it was not unusual for someone of the guides to take upon himself the entire direction of the retiring detachment, during the continuance of its retreat. Such was the confidence reposed in them, by those who best knew their abilities. With the hope of saving from total oblivion the names of those brave and patriotic men, I beg to place them before the Society, selecting for brief commentary, the three who were most conspicuous. The principal Westchester Guides, were the brothers Isaac and Cornelius Oakley of Whiteplains, and their cousin James Oakley of the Borough Toward of Westchester; the three

68 THE MCDONALDPAPERS brothers John, Abraham and Isaac Odell of Greenburgh; Isaac, or Uk Odell and Martin Post of Yonkers; the brothers Abraham and Micahel Dyckman of Kingsbridge; the brothers John and Peter Pine, from the country along the Croton, Samuel Youngs and John McChain of the manor of Philips-borough, Isaac Webbers of North Castle, David Hunt of Westchester, William Greene of the Lower Yonkers, and William N. Dyckman. To these names may be added An-drew Corsa of Fordham (who is yet living) but who in con-sequence of his youth, only acted upon two or three import-ant occasions, during the latter years of the war. The three, of whose numerous exploits I propose to describe a few, and of whose lives and characters, I shall give a very concise sketch, are Cornelius Oakley of Whiteplains, John Odell of Greenburgh and Abraham Dyckman of Kingsbridge.

To these names may be added An-drew Corsa of Fordham (who is yet living) but who in con-sequence of his youth, only acted upon two or three import-ant occasions, during the latter years of the war. The three, of whose numerous exploits I propose to describe a few, and of whose lives and characters, I shall give a very concise sketch, are Cornelius Oakley of Whiteplains, John Odell of Greenburgh and Abraham Dyckman of Kingsbridge. The ancestors of the first of these were among the early settlers of the Borough Town of Westchester. Cornelius Oakley was born on the 15th of January in the year 1757, at Whiteplains, to which place his father had removed two or three years previously. Some time in the spring of 1776, when it had become evident that a struggle with the forces of the mother-country was at hand, he and his brother Isaac enrolled themselves at Whiteplains, in a volunteer company composed of ardent young whigs of their own age, belonging to that part of the Country. They took this measure without the knowledge of their father, who had attached himself to the Society of Quakers, and consequently heard of it with extreme disapprobation. In obedience to his positive com-mands, they withdrew unwillingly from their engagement, and took but little part in the first campaign. John Odell was born near Croton River upon the Manor of Courtland, on the 25th of October 1756. His paternal ances-tor William Odell emigrated from England along with some of the early colonists of Rye, where he at first settled, but subse-quently, about the year 1680, removed to the Manor of Ford-ham, and married a daughter of one of the Dutch inhabitants. Similar alliances were sought by most of his children and descendants, by which means, when our guide's father settled,

John Odell was born near Croton River upon the Manor of Courtland, on the 25th of October 1756. His paternal ances-tor William Odell emigrated from England along with some of the early colonists of Rye, where he at first settled, but subse-quently, about the year 1680, removed to the Manor of Ford-ham, and married a daughter of one of the Dutch inhabitants. Similar alliances were sought by most of his children and descendants, by which means, when our guide's father settled,

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 69 first on the banks of the Croton and afterwards near Dobb's Ferry in Greenburgh, about the middle of the eighteenth cen-tury, both he and his family spoke the language of Holland, and in manners were Dutch rather than English. From commencement of the revolutionary troubles, in common with his father and near relatives, Odell opposed the coercive measures of the British ministry, and in June 1776, along with two of his brothers, joined a large volun-teer company of light infantry under the command of Stephen Oakley. This corps, to which the brothers Abraham and Michael Dyckman also belonged took part subsequently in the battle of Long Island. Abraham Dyckman was born at Kingsbridge upon the island side of Spyt den duivel Creek, on the 25 of August 1754. His paternal ancestors were among the early colonists of New Netherland and at one time owned nearly the whole extrem-ity of New York Island, north of Fort Washington. From the time of their first migration from Holland, their political propensities were strongly republican, and during the agita-tions that characterized the days of Leisler, they were his devoted friends, adhering to him after his fall with the same steadiness with which they had supported him while in power. It is a tradition in the family that a few days before the execu-tion of the unfortunate Lieutenant-Governor, their ancestor, Jacob Dyckman, then a child, accompanied his father, whose baptismal name he bore, to a city prison, where they saw the unhappy leader of faction, then under sentence of death.

From the time of their first migration from Holland, their political propensities were strongly republican, and during the agita-tions that characterized the days of Leisler, they were his devoted friends, adhering to him after his fall with the same steadiness with which they had supported him while in power. It is a tradition in the family that a few days before the execu-tion of the unfortunate Lieutenant-Governor, their ancestor, Jacob Dyckman, then a child, accompanied his father, whose baptismal name he bore, to a city prison, where they saw the unhappy leader of faction, then under sentence of death. Leisler took the child in his arms, and on learning his name exclaimed: "In that case we have three Jacobs here." He then put his hand upon the boy's head and added: "God bless you Jacob! May you live long and be a good and pros-perous man." When the British forces in the autumn of 1776 took pos-session of New York, the determined Whigs who stood com-mited to the cause of independence, went for the most part into voluntary exile, seeking new homes in the counties bor-dering upon the Hudson. Among these temporary emigrants were the Dyckmans of Kingsbridge, and the Odells of Green-

70 THE MCDONALD PAPERS burgh most of whom, while the war continued lived upon Courtland's Manor above the Croton. So far as can at this day be ascertained, the attempt made in January 1777, to reduce For Independence, near Kings-bridge, was the earliest occasion that called any of the "Guides of Westchester," (afterwards so celebrated) into the public service. As the time for putting his forces in motion drew nigh, General Heath applied to the Committee of Safety, for some persons minutely acquainted with the country around Kingsbridge, and with the various roads leading to New York, who might both act as guides and assist him in the capacity of aides, and that body appointed Cornelius Oakley, Isaac Oakley, John Pine and David Hunt to accompany the division under General Scott, and John Odell and the two Dyckmans, Abraham and Michael, to go down with the col-umn under General Lincoln.

As the time for putting his forces in motion drew nigh, General Heath applied to the Committee of Safety, for some persons minutely acquainted with the country around Kingsbridge, and with the various roads leading to New York, who might both act as guides and assist him in the capacity of aides, and that body appointed Cornelius Oakley, Isaac Oakley, John Pine and David Hunt to accompany the division under General Scott, and John Odell and the two Dyckmans, Abraham and Michael, to go down with the col-umn under General Lincoln. The American Army was at this time moved upon Fort Independence with great skill by different routes, and in three distinct columns, and during the whole investment that ensued, the Guides were constantly engaged in procuring quarters and forage for the troops, in keeping up intercourse between the various divisions and regiments, and in communicating the orders of the different officers, and the value of their services was acknowledged in public thanks by the commanding general. During part of the summer and autumn of 1778, the main body of the American forces under General Washington, was encamped at Whiteplains with a strong advanced corps posted near Tuckahoe, a few miles in front under General Scott, while still farther below, this latter officer stationed a picket guard of about one hundred and fifty riflemen under Colonel Gist, which lay on the heights, a little south of the Episcopalian parsonage then occupied by the widow Bab-cock. John Odell was Gist's chief guide, and as respects most of his operations, was also his confidential adviser. Lieutenant Colonel Simcoe at that time in command of the British light troops about Kingsbridge and Fordham, marched with his whole force before daybreak, on the morning of the 16th of September upon the camp of the American colonel,

During part of the summer and autumn of 1778, the main body of the American forces under General Washington, was encamped at Whiteplains with a strong advanced corps posted near Tuckahoe, a few miles in front under General Scott, while still farther below, this latter officer stationed a picket guard of about one hundred and fifty riflemen under Colonel Gist, which lay on the heights, a little south of the Episcopalian parsonage then occupied by the widow Bab-cock. John Odell was Gist's chief guide, and as respects most of his operations, was also his confidential adviser. Lieutenant Colonel Simcoe at that time in command of the British light troops about Kingsbridge and Fordham, marched with his whole force before daybreak, on the morning of the 16th of September upon the camp of the American colonel,

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 71 for the purpose of surrounding and taking his detachment by surprise. Lietuenant-colonel Emmerich conducted the ad-vance so adroitly, that the infantry of his corps and that of the Queen's rangers passed between two pickets of riflemen and gained the heights in rear of the American camp undiscov-ered. Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton in the meantime with the whole of his cavalry, had taken possession of Valentines' Hill on the East, while Major Prueschenck and Captain Wreden with strong detachments of the yagers were hastening to sta-tions where they might cut off the retreat of the Americans, towards the south or west. It was now a little before six o'clock in the morning. The Continental detachment was almost encircled by an over-whelming force, and nothing appeared wanting to render escape impossible but a few moments more of time, in order that Prueschenck and Wreden might gain their proper pos-tions. The destruction of Gist's corps seemed inevitable, but in the very hour of fate, fortune first, and then his guide, stepped forward for his preservation.

Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton in the meantime with the whole of his cavalry, had taken possession of Valentines' Hill on the East, while Major Prueschenck and Captain Wreden with strong detachments of the yagers were hastening to sta-tions where they might cut off the retreat of the Americans, towards the south or west. It was now a little before six o'clock in the morning. The Continental detachment was almost encircled by an over-whelming force, and nothing appeared wanting to render escape impossible but a few moments more of time, in order that Prueschenck and Wreden might gain their proper pos-tions. The destruction of Gist's corps seemed inevitable, but in the very hour of fate, fortune first, and then his guide, stepped forward for his preservation. One of his officers, Captain Smith, had been sent on business the day before to head-quarters and was at this moment returning on horse-back from Whiteplains to camp, along the Sawmill river road. As he passed the Episcopalian parsonage, Madame Babcock was standing on the porch and waved her handker-chief for him to approach, intending to warn him of the danger ahead; but Smith was in haste, and mistaking her sig-nal, returned it as a morning salutation, and pushing for-ward entered an ambuscade carefully prepared by Emmerich. Suddenly soldiers rose up from behind the fences, an officer called upon him to surrender, and the American captain found himself almost surrounded. With great decision he wheeled about, threw himself flat upon the horses shoulders, and spur-ring him to his utmost speed, rode safely through a volley of musketry and rifle-balls and escaped. Simcoe now mounted rapidly up the steeps toward Colonel Gist, but was mortified to find that his quarry had escaped, and that all he had gained was the possession of an empty camp. The truth is, however, that the American colonel was completely surprized,

With great decision he wheeled about, threw himself flat upon the horses shoulders, and spur-ring him to his utmost speed, rode safely through a volley of musketry and rifle-balls and escaped. Simcoe now mounted rapidly up the steeps toward Colonel Gist, but was mortified to find that his quarry had escaped, and that all he had gained was the possession of an empty camp. The truth is, however, that the American colonel was completely surprized,

72 THE MCDONALD PAPERS and when the first alarm was given by the firing of Emmerich's detachment, Gist's men were panic struck and preparing for surrender. Some of them in despair went so far as to throw away their rifles, but Odell addressed them, gave them assur-ances that if they would resume their arms and follow him, he would take them safely off, and with great presence of mind proceeded to perform his promise. He led them through thickets to the mot inaccessible parts of the Sawmill river which he forded at their head where the water was breast high, and gaining the difficult ridge, at the time covered with wood, which runs along the Hudson, conducted them, almost without loss, to General Scott's encampment. In the attack upon the refugee settlement situate in Mor-risania, on the east side of Mill-brook, made by Lieutenant Colonel Hull, supported by General Parsons on the morning of the 22nd January 1781, Cornelius Oakley, accompanied by the principal guides, commanded a select body of about twenty-five volunteer horsemen. When Hull's party ap-proached the brook, it was found swollen to such a height by a heavy rain of the day before, and so filled with broken ice, that the passage was extremely difficult, and could only be effected by mounting infantry behind cavalry. This re-quired time, and the noise unavoidable occasioned by ford-ing the stream, was heard by the enemy who immediately fired an alarm.

In the attack upon the refugee settlement situate in Mor-risania, on the east side of Mill-brook, made by Lieutenant Colonel Hull, supported by General Parsons on the morning of the 22nd January 1781, Cornelius Oakley, accompanied by the principal guides, commanded a select body of about twenty-five volunteer horsemen. When Hull's party ap-proached the brook, it was found swollen to such a height by a heavy rain of the day before, and so filled with broken ice, that the passage was extremely difficult, and could only be effected by mounting infantry behind cavalry. This re-quired time, and the noise unavoidable occasioned by ford-ing the stream, was heard by the enemy who immediately fired an alarm. Day was beginning to dawn when the Amer-ican detachment came to principal refugee village, where the enemy though surprised, were found standing to their arms and preparing for defense. Without giving them time to recover from their confusion, Hull gave orders for Captain Honeywell to prepare the cavalry for a charge, while the in-fantry would advance to their support. Oakley overheard, and saw the necessity for prompt action. At the head of his followers, he led the onset instantly against the refugees dashing into their ranks while they were in the act of form-ing, and by breaking and pursuing them in various direc-tions, insured the success of an enterprize, which, but for his quick decision and intrepidity, might have been doubt-ful.

THE WESCHESTERGUIDES 73 In the summer of 1781, after the Allied forces had been encamped upon the heights of Greenburgh, between White-plains and the Hudson, about two weeks, Washington and Rochambeau prepared for a formidable movement, with a select portion of their army, toward the lines of the enemy. Preparatory to this operation, Count Mathieu Dumas and the two brothers Berthier, with several other young officers attached to the French staff, who had for some days been zealously engaged in exploring the ground and roads, and in sketching maps of the country, between the allied Camp and Kingsbridge, were ordered by the French commander to set out before day-light, and to push their examinations till they came within sight of the enemy's most advanced re-doubts at the northern extremity of New York Island.

Preparatory to this operation, Count Mathieu Dumas and the two brothers Berthier, with several other young officers attached to the French staff, who had for some days been zealously engaged in exploring the ground and roads, and in sketching maps of the country, between the allied Camp and Kingsbridge, were ordered by the French commander to set out before day-light, and to push their examinations till they came within sight of the enemy's most advanced re-doubts at the northern extremity of New York Island. To protect these youthful aspirants for martial honors, a strong detachment of the lancers of Lauzun was sent along, under Lieutenant Charles Jennings Kilmaine, a young Irishman in the French service, whose merits were just then becoming known, and who afterward became a general of division and enjoyed the reputation of being one of the best cavalry offi-cers in Europe. The command of the whole party was bestowed upon Dumas. Cornelius Oakley was selected upon this occasion, to act as the principal guide, accompan-ied by his cousin James and by Andrew Corsa. Near Milesquare, Kilmaine fell in with a patrol of refugees which he charged and dispersed. Further down, the recon-noitring party was formed a junction with a select body of Amer-ican light-infantry, who the same morning, had gone down to explore the ground on the right, and the two allied detach-ments then drove across Kingsbridge the troops that occu-pied the Hessian outpost; pursuing the fugitives, till they came within musket shot of Prince Charles' redoubt. This reconnaissance was the first occasion upon which Kilmaine particularly distinguished himself, and it established in favor of the elder Berthier, a reputation for intrepidity which led to his promotion. While at some distance from his com-rades, the latter fell in with, and was attacked by one of Colonel James Delancey's corps of refugees.

Further down, the recon-noitring party was formed a junction with a select body of Amer-ican light-infantry, who the same morning, had gone down to explore the ground on the right, and the two allied detach-ments then drove across Kingsbridge the troops that occu-pied the Hessian outpost; pursuing the fugitives, till they came within musket shot of Prince Charles' redoubt. This reconnaissance was the first occasion upon which Kilmaine particularly distinguished himself, and it established in favor of the elder Berthier, a reputation for intrepidity which led to his promotion. While at some distance from his com-rades, the latter fell in with, and was attacked by one of Colonel James Delancey's corps of refugees. A fierce en-

74 THE MCDONALD PAPERS counter hand to hand was maintained by Berthier with the aggressor who did not surrender until mortally wounded. Five thousand troops of the two nations were now ordered to be held in readiness for marching below, at eight o'clock in the evening of Saturday, July the 21st, for the purpose of reconnoitring with precision the enemy's posts on the island, between Kingsbridge and Harlem, and of cutting off, if pos-sible, such of the enemy's corps as might be found upon the main. At the hour appointed, the march commenced in four columns, and on different roads. The right American col-umn consisted of the Connecticut troops, twenty-five of Sheldon's light dragoons and two field pieces under Major General Parsons, on the North River road. Two continental detachments under Major Generals Lincoln and Howe, to-gether with the corps of sappers and miners and four field pieces formed the next column, on the sawmill river road. The right column of the French, on the left of the Ameri-cans, consisted of the Brigade of Bourbonnais, with the bat-talion of grenadiers and chasseurs, two field pieces, and two twelve pounders, and moved by the Sprain road; while their left column, composed of the legion of Lauzun, one battalion of grenadiers and chasseurs, the regiment of Soissonnais, two field pieces and two howitzers, marched on the Tuckahoe road.

Two continental detachments under Major Generals Lincoln and Howe, to-gether with the corps of sappers and miners and four field pieces formed the next column, on the sawmill river road. The right column of the French, on the left of the Ameri-cans, consisted of the Brigade of Bourbonnais, with the bat-talion of grenadiers and chasseurs, two field pieces, and two twelve pounders, and moved by the Sprain road; while their left column, composed of the legion of Lauzun, one battalion of grenadiers and chasseurs, the regiment of Soissonnais, two field pieces and two howitzers, marched on the Tuckahoe road. General Waterbury with the militia and state troops of Con-necticut moved down by the Boston and New York pos road. The utmost pains were taken by the commander in chief to prevent any intelligence of these movements from getting to the enemy. Scammell's light infantry and vari-ous companies of rangers advanced through the fields, ambus-caded the roads, apprehended all persons travelling toward Kingsbridge or Morrisania and stopped effectually all com-munication with the lower towns of the county. This occa-sion called for the services of all the acting guides. John Odell and the two Dyckmans were accordingly the chief guides for the American columns, while Cornelius Oakley con-ducted the French troops under Rochambeau and Chastellux, assisted by Isaac and James Oakley, Isaac Webbers and others.

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 75 At Valentine's Hill the left column of the American troops formed a junction with the two French divisions, and the united forces arrived before Kingsbridge about daylight. Here they found General Parsons, who had arrived on the ground a short time previously. The whole army then formed on the heights back of Fort Independence, and be-tween there and Fordham Hamlet, to the great surprise of the enemy, who appeared to have been without the least intelligence of the hostile approach until the combined forces were ready to deploy.

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 75 At Valentine's Hill the left column of the American troops formed a junction with the two French divisions, and the united forces arrived before Kingsbridge about daylight. Here they found General Parsons, who had arrived on the ground a short time previously. The whole army then formed on the heights back of Fort Independence, and be-tween there and Fordham Hamlet, to the great surprise of the enemy, who appeared to have been without the least intelligence of the hostile approach until the combined forces were ready to deploy. The commander-in-chief, in company with General Ro-chambeau and the engineers, thereupon began to reconnoitre the enemy's position and works, first from Tippett's Hill opposite to their left, and then from Kingsbridge-Hill by Dyckman's bridge. After a short survey the two generals and their retinue galloped forward rapidly to Fordham Ham-let, where they halted. It was on the morning of Sunday, July the 22nd, and soon after sunrise, when Cornelius Oakley and Isaac Webbers, rode to the house of Captain Isaac Corsa, who lived near where the Roman Catholic College of St. John now stands, and asked to see his son Andrew, then a youth of about eighteen or nineteen, who is still alive, and a resident at Fordham. He had not yet risen, and the strangers who demanded the inter-view were conducted to his bedroom. Oakley then informed him that agreeably to his promise, General Washington re-quired his services forthwith as a guide, while the combined army remained below. This young man whose quick parts, intelligence, and accurate knowledge of the roads and passes of Morrisania and Fordham had recommended him to the elder guides, soon dressed, and then followed his visitors; who took him to front of a gateway which had lately led to Union Hill, the Rev.

He had not yet risen, and the strangers who demanded the inter-view were conducted to his bedroom. Oakley then informed him that agreeably to his promise, General Washington re-quired his services forthwith as a guide, while the combined army remained below. This young man whose quick parts, intelligence, and accurate knowledge of the roads and passes of Morrisania and Fordham had recommended him to the elder guides, soon dressed, and then followed his visitors; who took him to front of a gateway which had lately led to Union Hill, the Rev. Doctor Powell's residence, at that time occupied by the widow of Peter De-Lancey, the grandmother of Mrs. Powell. Here he found a splendid array of officers in full military dress, mounted, and awaiting his arrival. They sat on horseback, on the northerly side of the road, abreast of each other, and facing the highway. Besides the

76 THE MCDONALD PAPERS American generals and their aides, the group comprised Rochambeau, Chastellux, the Duke de Lauzun, and the num-erous officers attached to the French staff. Washington spoke kindly to the young man and ordered a good horse to be furnished for his use. The guides inquired if there were any of the refugee corps in the neighbourhood whom they might capture. Young Corsa told them there were two, of very notorious character, who might be found on the road they were about to pursue toward Westfarms, one of whom, Sergeant Hilliard belonged to Emmerich's dragoons, and that the other was one James Travis; but proceeded then to qual-ify his information with these words: "I saw them both last night, between here and Westfarms, at the house where Hilliard lives when not on duty. Push on quickly and you may secure them. But take care that Hilliard doesn't see you before you lay your hands on him, for if he once gets into the saddle you'll never catch him in the world.

Young Corsa told them there were two, of very notorious character, who might be found on the road they were about to pursue toward Westfarms, one of whom, Sergeant Hilliard belonged to Emmerich's dragoons, and that the other was one James Travis; but proceeded then to qual-ify his information with these words: "I saw them both last night, between here and Westfarms, at the house where Hilliard lives when not on duty. Push on quickly and you may secure them. But take care that Hilliard doesn't see you before you lay your hands on him, for if he once gets into the saddle you'll never catch him in the world. He is the most determined rider I have ever seen, and backs the fleetest horse that's known about here." Webbers then asked with earnestness, if this last were the famous "yellow boy with black streak along his back," that belonged to someone in Captain Ogden's troop, and on being assured that it was the same, both he and the other guides became equally anxious to possess themselves of the celebrated steed and to secure his rider. One and all, they now solicited the allied commanders for leave to go on in advance of the army and make the attempt. Permission was granted, whereupon they mounted in haste and pricked forward, young Corsa taking the lead in order to show them the house. The refugees however, were upon their guard, notwithstanding all the circumspection and speed that had been made use of by their adversaries; both of them being found mounted, as the guides came up. Travis fled at first sight of the pursuers, but Sergeant Hilliard felt such confi-dene in the superior powers of his courser, that he allowed them to approach within pistol shot before he moved. One of the guides then called out that they had something of

The refugees however, were upon their guard, notwithstanding all the circumspection and speed that had been made use of by their adversaries; both of them being found mounted, as the guides came up. Travis fled at first sight of the pursuers, but Sergeant Hilliard felt such confi-dene in the superior powers of his courser, that he allowed them to approach within pistol shot before he moved. One of the guides then called out that they had something of

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 77 importance to communicate to him, upon which he flourished a military salute, bade them good morning, and displayed immediately to its full extend the speed of his horse. A hot pursuit instantly followed, across the fields of Fordham and Morrisania, and more appropriate grounds than these at that time were for such a chase, are rarely witnessed, divested by war, as this region had long been, of barriers and fences. Travis was soon overtaken and secured, but Sergeant Hil-liard was not long in making good the prophecy of young Corsa, for he had been followed but little more than a mile before he disappeared entirely. When the pursuers, whose horses were much blown, re-gained the road they had left, they found the reconnoitring army in full motion toward Westfarms, and were ordered to their proper places in the van. According to the order of march, the guides with a detachment of light cavalry led the way, accompanied by some young officers of the staff, both American and French. Next came the generals them-selves with their aides and retinue, and then, after a con-siderable interval, followed the main body of the army. The expedition moved forward slowly and silently, without beat of drum or sound of trumpet. The horsemen scarcely ever broke from a walk. In this manner the army marched along the Fordham road, straight to the west bank of the Bronx, directly opposite to DeLancey's Mills, at Westfarms, and then continued its movement in a southerly direction immediately along the margin of the stream.

Next came the generals them-selves with their aides and retinue, and then, after a con-siderable interval, followed the main body of the army. The expedition moved forward slowly and silently, without beat of drum or sound of trumpet. The horsemen scarcely ever broke from a walk. In this manner the army marched along the Fordham road, straight to the west bank of the Bronx, directly opposite to DeLancey's Mills, at Westfarms, and then continued its movement in a southerly direction immediately along the margin of the stream. After passing along the Bronx a mile or more, they left behind them the houses of Cornelius Leggett and Robert Hunt, the latter of which is yet standing: mansions memorable as having at different times been the headquarters of the tory leaders Colonel DeLancey and Major Barmore. A short distance further on, the guides turned to the left, toward Graham's Point, and soon reached a spot that commanded a full view of Long Island Sound. Here General Washington ordered a halt, and inquired the names of the islands that lay before them, particularly those of the Two Brothers. Retracing their steps about half a mile, they entered the old road leading

78 THE MCDONALD PAPERS to Morrisania Ferry, which they followed for a while, and then moving through the fields on the left, entered Morrisania by its eastern borders. The refugee corps all this while, surprised and alarmed at the sudden appearance of the combined forces, were flying before them, and seeking safety at Harlem and Montressor's Island. When the allies came in sight of the enemy, on the high grounds about old Morrisania House, the residence of Col. Lewis Morris, the British Artillery opened upon them a tremendous fire from the fortifications at Mont-ressor's Island and Snake Hill (now Mount Morris), from the batteries at Harlem, and from the ships of war at anchor in the river.

The refugee corps all this while, surprised and alarmed at the sudden appearance of the combined forces, were flying before them, and seeking safety at Harlem and Montressor's Island. When the allies came in sight of the enemy, on the high grounds about old Morrisania House, the residence of Col. Lewis Morris, the British Artillery opened upon them a tremendous fire from the fortifications at Mont-ressor's Island and Snake Hill (now Mount Morris), from the batteries at Harlem, and from the ships of war at anchor in the river. Near Morrisania Mill the army halted for a few minutes, to give the commanding officers an opportunity of examining the opposite shores; while the vanguard consisting of Sheldon's light dragoons and some of the hussars and lancers of Lauzun, accompanied by the guides, and by most of the young French and American aides, galloped to the Ferry at Harlem River, and charged a troop of DeLancey's cavalry that lingered upon Westchester side. The refugee horsemen fired their carbines and pistols, as their antagonists came near, and then wheeled about to escape by swimming. The allied cavalry followed them closely and several com-bats took place in the water, in which one of the fugitives was killed, but the riderless steed escaped with his comrades, and gave evidence of good training, by taking his proper place in the troop, when the latter, after crossing the river, drew up and formed on the opposite bank. The horse of one of the French officers was about the same time either killed or disabled, upon which the rider dismounted, and with great coolness took off and secured upon his shoulders the saddle, bridle and holsters, and waded back to the shore. Having driven the refugees to the Island, the vanguard stopped for a short time behind the mansion of Colonel Lewis Morris, near the Ferry, where most of the guides and officers dismounted.

The horse of one of the French officers was about the same time either killed or disabled, upon which the rider dismounted, and with great coolness took off and secured upon his shoulders the saddle, bridle and holsters, and waded back to the shore. Having driven the refugees to the Island, the vanguard stopped for a short time behind the mansion of Colonel Lewis Morris, near the Ferry, where most of the guides and officers dismounted. Here they found a refugee from the upper part of the county, named John Montross, who answered their inquires with readiness and civility, and not being in uniform, passed for one of the neighboring farmers. Montross was observed to

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 79 be much struck by the beauty of a large black horse belong-ing to one of the French officers, who had left him in charge of a servant. Addressing himself to the groom, the refugee asked the animal's age and pedigree, examined his points, got the reins in his hand, and at length, while still engaged in conversation, vaulted into the saddle, and urging the courser to his utmost speed by kicking his flanks, was in a few min-utes afterward in the act of fording Harlem River. The cap-ture and escape would have been nearly simultaneous, but for a very unusual circumstance. When they came to where the water was deep, the horse refused to swim. While the enter-prising robber was floundering in the creek, in fruitless efforts to impel his gallant looking prize within the British lines, the alarm was given to the allied horsemen, and eight or ten dragoons and guides rode into the river and discharged their pistols and carbines at the refugee. Montross now dis-mounted, but not to relinquish his prize. Holding on to the bridle and placing the horse between himself and his ene-mies, he ducked under water whenever they were about to fire.

While the enter-prising robber was floundering in the creek, in fruitless efforts to impel his gallant looking prize within the British lines, the alarm was given to the allied horsemen, and eight or ten dragoons and guides rode into the river and discharged their pistols and carbines at the refugee. Montross now dis-mounted, but not to relinquish his prize. Holding on to the bridle and placing the horse between himself and his ene-mies, he ducked under water whenever they were about to fire. At length his situation attracted the attention of the refugee troops at Harlem who encouraged him by shouts and gestures, several of them musket in hand wading out to his relief, and firing upon the guides and dragoons, soon after which, one or two field pieces were brought down and planted opposite the ferry, which compelled the American and French advanced guard to withdraw. Montross who had constantly held on to his saddle prize by the bridle, now secured him, together with his trappings and his master's pistols, but the horse persisted to the last in refusing to swim, and the cap-tor at length was compelled to take him to New York Island in a boat. The combined forces then commenced their return march, passing west of Mill-Brook, through the fields of Morrisania and Fordham, and stopping from time to time as they moved along, to enable the generals and engineers to examine the grounds along Harlem River. At sundown they reached the heights near Fort Independence, where an encampment had been marked out for them, and there terminated the

Montross who had constantly held on to his saddle prize by the bridle, now secured him, together with his trappings and his master's pistols, but the horse persisted to the last in refusing to swim, and the cap-tor at length was compelled to take him to New York Island in a boat. The combined forces then commenced their return march, passing west of Mill-Brook, through the fields of Morrisania and Fordham, and stopping from time to time as they moved along, to enable the generals and engineers to examine the grounds along Harlem River. At sundown they reached the heights near Fort Independence, where an encampment had been marked out for them, and there terminated the

80 THE MCDONALD PAPERS operations that distinguished the first day of the grand recon-noissance. Toward the end of February, 1782, Cornelius Oakley planned an attack upon the refugees of Morrisania, which was submitted to and approved of by Major Woodbridge of the Second Connecticut regiment, who then commanded upon the lines, and was carried into execution a few days afterward. Captain Israel Honeywell at the head of his company of Westchester light horse with volunteers and guides, amounting in the whole to nearly one hundred men, was ordered to strike at the refugees, in their settlement below the British redoubt No. 8, while Major Woodbridge himself with one hundred and fifty Continental infantry, would be ready to support the former in his operations. The American detachment marched from near Pinesbridge about mid-day on the 3d of March. At Eastchester Major Woodbridge halted with his infantry for the purpose of tak-ing a position by which he might cover Honeywell's retreat, while the latter pushed forward toward Morrisania, and pass-ing down between the quarters occupied by the refugees and redoubt No. 8 turned the left flank of the former between daylight and sunrise, and suddenly entered the settlement of the royalists.

The American detachment marched from near Pinesbridge about mid-day on the 3d of March. At Eastchester Major Woodbridge halted with his infantry for the purpose of tak-ing a position by which he might cover Honeywell's retreat, while the latter pushed forward toward Morrisania, and pass-ing down between the quarters occupied by the refugees and redoubt No. 8 turned the left flank of the former between daylight and sunrise, and suddenly entered the settlement of the royalists. Cornelius Oakley, seconded by Abraham Dyckman, led the attack, and charged home with loud huzzas, at the head of about twenty guides and mounted volunteers. The enemy, completely surprised, were dispersed, fled at the first onset in every direction, leaving six dead upon the spot and many wounded men whose sabre cuts were too severe to warrant a removal. Soon afterward, however, some of the refugees rallied, and availing themselves of positions which the American horsemen could not reach, harassed their assailants by an unremitted discharge of musketry, which occasioned the firing of alarm guns at redoubt No. 8, and at Fort George on New York Island. Capt. Honeywell now proceeded without delay to fall back upon major Wood-bridge. The prisoners consisted of a Lieutenant and twenty of DeLancey's men, and twenty-two dragoon horses also were captured, with their equipment and the arms of their

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 81 riders. Although the American forces retired with celerity, it was not long before Colonel DeLancey overtook them in Eastchester, at the head of his whole corps, and some Hessian riflemen from Kingsbridge under Captain Hetlzheimer, but his infantry being extremely fatigued by a forced march of unusual rapidity, he halted for a while before leading them against the Americans. At this moment the guide of Kingsbridge, who always courted the post of danger, the foremost of the van in pur-suit, the hindmost of the rear in retreat, was riding side by side with his cousin the late William N.

Although the American forces retired with celerity, it was not long before Colonel DeLancey overtook them in Eastchester, at the head of his whole corps, and some Hessian riflemen from Kingsbridge under Captain Hetlzheimer, but his infantry being extremely fatigued by a forced march of unusual rapidity, he halted for a while before leading them against the Americans. At this moment the guide of Kingsbridge, who always courted the post of danger, the foremost of the van in pur-suit, the hindmost of the rear in retreat, was riding side by side with his cousin the late William N. Dyckman of Macakassin, the last of all the party. Perceiving the refu-gees stationary, he wheeled about and advanced upon the pursuers, sword in hand, as his custom was, for the purpose of challenging some one of them to meet him in a single combat. It happened unfortunately that a solitary rifleman had crept considerably ahead of the British party, concealing him-self behind a stone wall, from which he took deliberate aim at the guide and fired with mournful effect. The distance from which the fatal shot came was very extraordinary, and Dyck-man himself soon afterward said, that he did not suppose there existed a firelock that could carry a ball so far. After receiving the wound in his body he leaned on one side, which gave his horse an inclination in the same direction, and his cousin who was near by, cried out immediately: "Abraham! your horse is wounded." Dyckman, turning slowly about answered, but with a look and gesture which told his state, before he gave utterance to a word. "William," said the stricken soldier, laying his hand upon the wound: "I've got it now. But don't let me fall into the enemy's hands. I dread that." His two brothers Jacobus and Michael, who were a short distance off, were now called, and these, when they came up, took the reins of his bridle and rode briskly forward, while he with their aid supported himself by the horse's mane, until they passed the American detachment and reached a place of safety.

"William," said the stricken soldier, laying his hand upon the wound: "I've got it now. But don't let me fall into the enemy's hands. I dread that." His two brothers Jacobus and Michael, who were a short distance off, were now called, and these, when they came up, took the reins of his bridle and rode briskly forward, while he with their aid supported himself by the horse's mane, until they passed the American detachment and reached a place of safety. Immediately afterward, he was conveyed to the neighborhood of Peekskill, where he died five days subse-quently on the 9th of March, 1782, and was buried at Crompond.

82 THE MCDONALD PAPERS The last partisan excursion of the Neutral Ground was made on the 24th, of January, 1783, by about fifty volunteer horse-men under the command of Captain Daniel Williams. John Odell and his two brothers, William N. Dyckman, Martin Post and John McChain were engaged in this enterprise, the principal object of which, was to make prisoner of Colonel James DeLancey, who entirely off his guard lay at Westfarms, in fancied security, busily engaged in preparations to meet the banishment to which he had been doomed by the confiscation and outlawry Act of Legislature of his parent state. The great outlaw of Westchester however escaped, notwith-standing every precaution was taken by Captain Williams, when he advanced about midnight upon DeLancey's House, at Westfarms and the followers of the former thereupon sought solace for the disappointment in an appropriation of spoils, justified alike by the rules of war, and by seven years' usage upon the lines, consisting principally of household val-uables, arms, and horses. As the American volunteers on their return, approached the Manor of Courtland, such of them as came from its eastern parts, being anxious to regain their homes by the shortest route, refused to cross the Croton River, and it was there-fore proposed and agreed to, by acclamation, that they should go to Orser's house, on the banks of the North River, where they could procure refreshments for themselves and their horses, and divide the spoils.

As the American volunteers on their return, approached the Manor of Courtland, such of them as came from its eastern parts, being anxious to regain their homes by the shortest route, refused to cross the Croton River, and it was there-fore proposed and agreed to, by acclamation, that they should go to Orser's house, on the banks of the North River, where they could procure refreshments for themselves and their horses, and divide the spoils. Captain Williams and John Odell remonstrated with them, but in vain, upon the dan-ger of halting south of the Croton. The men weary and half famished, were bent upon rest of refreshment, and turned a deaf ear alike to command and advice. It was about nine o'clock in the forenoon when they proceeded to the farm house, and according to the custom of the time, commenced a sale of their booty at auction, for the purpose of making an equitable division. No sentinel was posted to guard against surprise, and the men, their tour of voluntary service having now drawn almost to a close, felt no longer a disposition to obey. Captain Williams and Odell alone remained upon the alert. The former considered the danger so imminent, that

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 83 he refused to dismount, and performed from necessity the duty of a common vidette, for the men under his command; while the latter after leaving his horse and mingling occasion-ally with his comrades in the house, rejoined his commander for a lookout, at frequent intervals. While they were thus at Orser's, refreshing themselves in imaginary security, the refugee leaders had overtaken and encompassed them with their whole cavalry, leaving no way open for escape but that of the river. The attack was commenced by the firing of a volley upon the out-buildings of the farm, and the surprise proved complete and irremediable.

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 83 he refused to dismount, and performed from necessity the duty of a common vidette, for the men under his command; while the latter after leaving his horse and mingling occasion-ally with his comrades in the house, rejoined his commander for a lookout, at frequent intervals. While they were thus at Orser's, refreshing themselves in imaginary security, the refugee leaders had overtaken and encompassed them with their whole cavalry, leaving no way open for escape but that of the river. The attack was commenced by the firing of a volley upon the out-buildings of the farm, and the surprise proved complete and irremediable. Williams seeing at a glance that no successful resistance could be made, directed his volunteers to shift for themselves, and pricking hard, attempted to reach Tellers Point by the ice, the river being frozen nearly all the way across; but he was followed upon the spur by Lieutenant-colonel Holmes and Captain Totten, two of the refugee officers, who, better mounted than himself, happened to be ahead of their followers. Finding in a short time that escape was imprac-ticable he dismounted, surrendered his sword, and was admit-ted to parole. At this moment, Odell was endeavoring to pass them, by making a detour to the left. On the first alarm he had sallied from the house, but found his horse had broken loose and disappeared. He lost not a moment in throwing himself upon the first steed he could find, and galloped at full speed upon the ice, in hopes of gaining the friendly shore of Cortland's Manor above the Croton, but as he attempted to pass the two royal officers, they rode out westerly and cut off his retreat. Odell now found that many of his compan-ions were endeavoring to secure their safety by following the route he had taken, while close behind them were DeLancey's dragoons in full career, pushing forward with execration and outcry.

He lost not a moment in throwing himself upon the first steed he could find, and galloped at full speed upon the ice, in hopes of gaining the friendly shore of Cortland's Manor above the Croton, but as he attempted to pass the two royal officers, they rode out westerly and cut off his retreat. Odell now found that many of his compan-ions were endeavoring to secure their safety by following the route he had taken, while close behind them were DeLancey's dragoons in full career, pushing forward with execration and outcry. Not being certain whether the pursuers, in the heat of combat, would give quarter, and unwilling to be captured, he turned his horse's head to the west, and rode toward the middle of the Hudson river, where the channel still remained unfrozen, determined, if the enemy persevered in the chase, to plunge into the water and make for the opposite shore.

84 THE MCDONALD PAPERS Fortunately, the only refugees whose attention he had at-tracted were the two officers who had overtaken Williams, but these were instantly in full pursuit, and soon came up upon his right. Totten, who was nearest, approached and struck with his sword at momentary intervals, but his blows, somewhat awkwardly directed across his bridle arm, were readily parried by Odell, who constantly held his sabre at guard, contenting himself with remaining upon the defensive, and keeping both antagonists in view. At length Lieutenant-colonel Holmes was heard to exclaim: "Take care, Captain - he'll cut you," and immediately afterwards checked his speed, for the purpose of changing his position and of attack-ing the fugitive guide upon the left. Odell comprehended the manoeuvre at once, and seeing himself about to be as-sailed on both sides simultaneously, adopted the only expedi-ent now left for escape, and drawing rein with all his might, threw his horse almost upon his haunches at the very moment when Totten passed by.

At length Lieutenant-colonel Holmes was heard to exclaim: "Take care, Captain - he'll cut you," and immediately afterwards checked his speed, for the purpose of changing his position and of attack-ing the fugitive guide upon the left. Odell comprehended the manoeuvre at once, and seeing himself about to be as-sailed on both sides simultaneously, adopted the only expedi-ent now left for escape, and drawing rein with all his might, threw his horse almost upon his haunches at the very moment when Totten passed by. Rising in the stirrups, which were very short, the guide of Greenburgh now struck with his utmost force a blow at the refugee captain, which beat down his guard, cut through his cap, and wounded him in the head. Stunned by the stroke he reeled for a moment in the saddle and then fell upon the ice; while Odell recovered himself in sufficient time to parry a blow aimed at him by Holmes in passing on the other side. Rousing his horse with the spur, he now directed his flight northerly toward Teller's Point, and made such progress before his antagonists were in proper plight to follow, that they were content to give up the chase. In personal appearance, the three capital guides were very dissimilar. Dyckman was not much above the middle size, but square built, and possessed of extraordinary muscular powers, with a large trunk, and shoulders of unusual breadth. Odell was about six feet in height and robust, and although long limbed and apparently heavy moulded was capable of great and rapid exertion. Oakley was thin, tall, straight and of uncommon activity. A similar difference extended to their characters. Dyck-man was of a frank and joyous temperament, and possessed

Dyckman was not much above the middle size, but square built, and possessed of extraordinary muscular powers, with a large trunk, and shoulders of unusual breadth. Odell was about six feet in height and robust, and although long limbed and apparently heavy moulded was capable of great and rapid exertion. Oakley was thin, tall, straight and of uncommon activity. A similar difference extended to their characters. Dyck-man was of a frank and joyous temperament, and possessed

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 85 the generous deportment that makes quick and lasting friends. Feeling always assured of success, he embarked in the revo-lutionary contest with a sanguine enthusiasm that was con-stitutional, and during the whole struggle, it is said that he was never once dispirited and never doubted for a moment that the American arms would ultimately be triumphant, From the commencement of the war he continued steadily in the service of his country, always prepared to conduct a detachment, or to join or lead a scouting party, and always ready to encounter peril, often apparently for peril's sake. Danger seemed to be the element in which he delighted to move. This characteristic often led him to unnecessary per-sonal exposure, and sometimes subjected him to reproach by the officers under whom he acted, who more than once, were compelled to remonstrate, and put before him its liveliest form the fact, that his life belonged not to himself, but to his country, and that the safety of the detachment he was guid-ing, depended upon his well-being. In the last days of his life, after his wound had been pronounced mortal, he lamented that he could not live to witness the prosperity of his country under her new institutions, and a similar feeling of regret pre-vailed among his friends and acquaintances for many years afterward. Like the great leader and lawgiver of the Jews, he had a glimpse of the promised land, but was not allowed to tread upon its confines.

This characteristic often led him to unnecessary per-sonal exposure, and sometimes subjected him to reproach by the officers under whom he acted, who more than once, were compelled to remonstrate, and put before him its liveliest form the fact, that his life belonged not to himself, but to his country, and that the safety of the detachment he was guid-ing, depended upon his well-being. In the last days of his life, after his wound had been pronounced mortal, he lamented that he could not live to witness the prosperity of his country under her new institutions, and a similar feeling of regret pre-vailed among his friends and acquaintances for many years afterward. Like the great leader and lawgiver of the Jews, he had a glimpse of the promised land, but was not allowed to tread upon its confines. For six years he had been familiar with death. During this time he had full often confronted the "King of terrors," and knew and disregarded him in all the variety of his forms. Until his last excursion he had passed through the perils of the field without the slightest injury, so that at length some, apparently half in earnest, began to assert of him an immunity, such as the Thane of Cawdor claimed for himself, - that he wwas not destined to be harmed by one of woman born. It was but a few weeks before he received his mortal wound, that he conducted a large party below, which was met in Fordham by a detachment of the enemy still more numerous, and driven in some confusion across the Bronx. Here, while the American force halted to form anew, Dyckman perceived a continental officer bare-

Until his last excursion he had passed through the perils of the field without the slightest injury, so that at length some, apparently half in earnest, began to assert of him an immunity, such as the Thane of Cawdor claimed for himself, - that he wwas not destined to be harmed by one of woman born. It was but a few weeks before he received his mortal wound, that he conducted a large party below, which was met in Fordham by a detachment of the enemy still more numerous, and driven in some confusion across the Bronx. Here, while the American force halted to form anew, Dyckman perceived a continental officer bare-

86 THE MCDONALD PAPERS headed, and learned from him that, closely pursued through an orchard by a refugee dragoon, his cocked hat was caught and retained by its plume, in the boughs of a tree under which he had passed. The tree was pointed out, whereupon Dyckman exclaimed, "You shall have your hat again," and instantly spurred back across the Bronx. Although by this time, the orchard for the most part was in possession of the Royal forces, he did not hesitate to enter it, and having found the hat, bore it off upon the point of his sword, literally amidst a shower of balls, almost every hostile soldier, whether of foot or horse, following and firing at him unsuccessfully. In this plight, with the whole body of the enemy at his heels, he recrossed Williamsbridge at full speed, being welcomed back with shouts of exultation. He never hesitated to accept a challenge from the enemy or to encounter superior numbers, however great the odds might be. Once, in 1781, while reconnoitring near Fort Independence at the head of five guides and volunteers, a patrol of DeLancey's dragoons far superior in numbers, advanced upon him with loud shouts; but he lost not a moment in becoming the assailant himself, and a long combat with the sabre ensured, in which five of the dragoons, each one of whom was wounded, were taken prisoners.

He never hesitated to accept a challenge from the enemy or to encounter superior numbers, however great the odds might be. Once, in 1781, while reconnoitring near Fort Independence at the head of five guides and volunteers, a patrol of DeLancey's dragoons far superior in numbers, advanced upon him with loud shouts; but he lost not a moment in becoming the assailant himself, and a long combat with the sabre ensured, in which five of the dragoons, each one of whom was wounded, were taken prisoners. Subse-quently, about ten days before his death, he was in command of a party of thirteen, and while retiring from Morrisania, incumbered with prisoners and captured horses, he was pur-sued and overtaken by a numerous detachment of the enemy's dragoons, which approached with that confidence, that supe-rior strength generally inspires; but the guide of Kingsbridge commanded his brave followers to face about, and by a vigor-ous charge put to flight the whole body of pursuers, of whom one was taken. His death, which was long and deeply la-mented, appears related in the chief newspapers of the day, the Whig journals dwelling upon his remarkable courage and services, and mourning his departure, and the Royal gazettes of New York City, while they give some particulars of the skirmish, recording his fall with seeming satisfaction. In recounting the losses sustained by the Americans, Rivington

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 87 says: "Among the killed, is the noted Abraham Dyckman, a principal rebel guide." The circumstances which marked the end of his career were such as are hoped and prayed for by many a youthful and patriotic soldier. He fell while yet young in good cause, in the service of his country, with his face to the foe, and with battle harness on his back. The only relic of what once belonged to him is his sword, a sabre of the largest size, which has been preserved with pious care, and is still shown to the curious, bearing undoubted marks of long usage in battle.

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 87 says: "Among the killed, is the noted Abraham Dyckman, a principal rebel guide." The circumstances which marked the end of his career were such as are hoped and prayed for by many a youthful and patriotic soldier. He fell while yet young in good cause, in the service of his country, with his face to the foe, and with battle harness on his back. The only relic of what once belonged to him is his sword, a sabre of the largest size, which has been preserved with pious care, and is still shown to the curious, bearing undoubted marks of long usage in battle. The Guide of Greenburgh was cast in a mould in many respects the opposite of that which gave form and impress to his lamented friend and companion [who fell prematurely in Eastchester]. Odell was a man of great caution and fore-sight, who never exposed himself unnecessarily, and was always on guard against surprise, which he made it a point never to believe altogether improbable, and for which he was always prepared. When disasters came, or enter-prizes failed, he was always ready with a plan for retreat, which long previously had been considered and matured. On the other hand, when circumstances required it, he faced danger and entered into combat, with as much resolution as his Kingsbridge comrade and with more coolness. From early life he was remarkable for sedateness, suavity of manners, and integrity, and throughout the contest for independence, he shielded from persecution, when it was in his power, such as were Royalists from principle, and never failed to discour-age that license with respect to the security and property of others which seems to be a natural and inevitable conse-quence of civil war, in which his friends and comrades some-times indulged.

On the other hand, when circumstances required it, he faced danger and entered into combat, with as much resolution as his Kingsbridge comrade and with more coolness. From early life he was remarkable for sedateness, suavity of manners, and integrity, and throughout the contest for independence, he shielded from persecution, when it was in his power, such as were Royalists from principle, and never failed to discour-age that license with respect to the security and property of others which seems to be a natural and inevitable conse-quence of civil war, in which his friends and comrades some-times indulged. When first appointed a guide, he was presented by Lieuten-ant-Governor Van Cortland, with a pair of pistols, a sword, and a fine grey horse, which last he invariably rode when on duty. He was unusually expert in the use of the sabre, and in consequence of possessing great length of arm, had acquired an art peculiar to himself, of suddenly leaning far back in the saddle, so as to strike a pursuer at an extraordinary distance.

88 THE MCDONALD PAPERS This faculty was so well known, that when DeLancey's horse-men were in chase of patrolling parties to which he belonged, they always approached him cautiously. He was well acquainted with the celebrated commander of the Westchester refugees, who entertained for him the high-est regard. Sometime about the middle of the war, he was below with a flag of truce, upon which occasion Colonel DeLancey took him aside, and intimated to him the expedi-ency of withdrawing for a while, along with Michael Dyck-man, from his usual service upon the lines, as some of the Royalists, whose relatives had had their houses and barns destroyed, were much excited and determined to retaliate upon the Odells and Dyckmans, who, as influential Whigs, and persons engaged in all the important excursions below were supposed capable of controlling illegal operations, and were to be held responsible for the acts of marauders professing allegiance to the upper party.

Sometime about the middle of the war, he was below with a flag of truce, upon which occasion Colonel DeLancey took him aside, and intimated to him the expedi-ency of withdrawing for a while, along with Michael Dyck-man, from his usual service upon the lines, as some of the Royalists, whose relatives had had their houses and barns destroyed, were much excited and determined to retaliate upon the Odells and Dyckmans, who, as influential Whigs, and persons engaged in all the important excursions below were supposed capable of controlling illegal operations, and were to be held responsible for the acts of marauders professing allegiance to the upper party. DeLancey added, that al-though he was commanding officer of the refugees, it was not always in his power to control their proceedings. In con-sequence of this friendly intimation and for the purpose of saving their friends from outrage and loss of property, both Odell and Michael Dyckman withdrew for some time from Westchester, and served a campaign in the Mohawk country, the former as a lieutenant in Colonel Graham's regiment of the New York levies. An instance of the circumspection for which he was dis-tinguished, occurred in the month of June 1781. He had been below with a small party which had been very success-ful, and was returning at night, along the Sprain road, with seven or eight prisoners and their arms and horses, but upon passing a farmhouse somewhat celebrated for the hospital-ity of its owner, Mr. Jacob Vermilye, five or six of the men an-nounced their determination of stopping for refreshment. It was in vain that the commander of the detachment and the guide opposed this proceeding, and remonstrated with them upon the danger of making a halt so near the enemy. The men said they were faint and weary, and without more words went in, while the rest of the party pushed forward with the

He had been below with a small party which had been very success-ful, and was returning at night, along the Sprain road, with seven or eight prisoners and their arms and horses, but upon passing a farmhouse somewhat celebrated for the hospital-ity of its owner, Mr. Jacob Vermilye, five or six of the men an-nounced their determination of stopping for refreshment. It was in vain that the commander of the detachment and the guide opposed this proceeding, and remonstrated with them upon the danger of making a halt so near the enemy. The men said they were faint and weary, and without more words went in, while the rest of the party pushed forward with the

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 89 prisoners and booty, and made good their retreat. Odell had joined the commander in warning those who stopped, of their imprudence, but when he found remonstrance unavail-ing he also dismounted. "You will," said he, "in all prob-ability be surprised, but I will try and bring you off." His first care was to secure his horse at some distance from the house. He then entered and told the men, if the enemy came upon them to keep near him, and to follow his example. The event he had foreseen happened while they were at sup-per, when the house was surrounded by a party of refugee cavalry under Lieutenant James Kipp, an officer of DeLancey's dragoons. Odell sprang out from a window, followed by the others, and throwing himself sword in hand upon the refugees, forced a passage for himself and the two who were nearest, Isaac Lent and a boy named Van Nostrand. The other four who had also jumped from the same window and fol-lowed their guide, were overpowered and taken. Odell soon afterward returned and obtained possession of his horse, but the steeds of his two companions in flight were captured.

Odell sprang out from a window, followed by the others, and throwing himself sword in hand upon the refugees, forced a passage for himself and the two who were nearest, Isaac Lent and a boy named Van Nostrand. The other four who had also jumped from the same window and fol-lowed their guide, were overpowered and taken. Odell soon afterward returned and obtained possession of his horse, but the steeds of his two companions in flight were captured. After the termination of the war of independence, he settled upon the ample farm at Greenburgh, which he always after-ward occupied, and returned to the peaceful pursuits of agri-culture in which he was eminently successful, being considered one of the best practical farmers of his native county, and never allowing politics to seduce him from his favourite employment. His personal popularity and the influence of his family, might have enabled him to embark in public life with success, had he not preferred the independence and repose of a private station. Consistent in this determination, he never accepted but one office, that of Colonel in the New York State Militia. After a life distinguished for hospital-ity, benevolence, industry and frugality, and having been twice married, he died at his residence upon the heights of Greenburgh, on the 26th of October 1835, leaving two chil-dren and other descendants. His character may be summed up in a few words, and no one who ever knew him will dis-pute its accuracy. He was the consummate pattern of an intelligent and virtuous yeoman.

Consistent in this determination, he never accepted but one office, that of Colonel in the New York State Militia. After a life distinguished for hospital-ity, benevolence, industry and frugality, and having been twice married, he died at his residence upon the heights of Greenburgh, on the 26th of October 1835, leaving two chil-dren and other descendants. His character may be summed up in a few words, and no one who ever knew him will dis-pute its accuracy. He was the consummate pattern of an intelligent and virtuous yeoman.

90 THE MCDONALD PAPERS Oakley possessed the principal military characteristics of the other two, but to these were added traits peculiarly his own. To much of the headlong ardor of the one, he joined the circumspection and unerring judgement of the other, and superadded to both, a rapidity of weighing circumstances in the mental balance and a consequent quickness of decision in emergency, which left his contemporaries far behind. He did not provoke his destiny by bravery which had in view no definite result, like Dyckman; nor did he like Odell, always wait till the chances were in his favor, but often stood the hazard of the die when probabilities were somewhat adverse; always taking into the account, that fortune favors the agres-sive party when its measures are well concerted. In 1781, during the whole time the combined army was in Westchester, he lived constantly near General Count Rocham-beau, with whom he was a great favourite; partaking during the marches and reconnoissances which then occurred, of all the hospitalities of the French commander's tent and table. His correct answers and prompt advice, when consulted upon the military routes to be traversed, his rapid and accurate perception of heights, and distances, and his sagacity in pointing out the proper direction for the various columns of the army to take through the impediments of the country, made a strong impression upon the principal officers, both French and American; and Rochambeau said to him, - "Oakley, nature designed you for the leader of an army." He always possessed a nice sense of what was due to him-self as a man of honor.

His correct answers and prompt advice, when consulted upon the military routes to be traversed, his rapid and accurate perception of heights, and distances, and his sagacity in pointing out the proper direction for the various columns of the army to take through the impediments of the country, made a strong impression upon the principal officers, both French and American; and Rochambeau said to him, - "Oakley, nature designed you for the leader of an army." He always possessed a nice sense of what was due to him-self as a man of honor. When the combined forces retired from Westchester on their way to Yorktown, Washington invited him to dinner at headquarters, where he met several of the superior officers, convened, as he soon afterwards dis-covered for the purpose of persuading him to go below as a spy. Accordingly, as soon as the cloth was removed, the proposition was made to him by the American commander, and rejected instantly and with indignation. The officers present then joined Washington, in endeavouring to pacify this unexpected outbreak of displeasure, and after some time had elapsed, the whole party renewing the subject, made

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 91 another attempt to accomplish the object which had brought them together. They urged at much length, that at that particular moment, the good cause stood in great need of a confidential agent to reside with the enemy for special pur-poses; they expressed the exalted opinion entertained by them of his fidelity and address; declared that of all the persons they could think of he was the one best fitted for the required service, and concluded by appealing to his patriotism, for the sacrifice of all feelings that stood in the way of his consent. He replied that he was ready at all times to do whatever was just and reasonable in the cause in which they had all em-barked: that if his country required it, he would surrender for her sake, everything he possessed except his honor, but that he would not forfeit his good name by acting in the infamous capacity of a spy.

They urged at much length, that at that particular moment, the good cause stood in great need of a confidential agent to reside with the enemy for special pur-poses; they expressed the exalted opinion entertained by them of his fidelity and address; declared that of all the persons they could think of he was the one best fitted for the required service, and concluded by appealing to his patriotism, for the sacrifice of all feelings that stood in the way of his consent. He replied that he was ready at all times to do whatever was just and reasonable in the cause in which they had all em-barked: that if his country required it, he would surrender for her sake, everything he possessed except his honor, but that he would not forfeit his good name by acting in the infamous capacity of a spy. When the officers present again persisted in pressing the subject upon his consideration, he rose from the table, and after expressing in a few words, his regret that the Commander-in-chief and company had not conceived a more favourable opinion of his principles, abruptly took his leave. So profoundly disgusted was he at this attempt to draw from him services which he deemed dishonorable, that he resigned his employment as a guide, and withdrew to a distant part of the country; and, it was not till after the expiration of several months, and after much entreaty that he consented to return and resume his situation. Once during the war Oakley was taken prisoner and con-fined along with his brother Isaac in the old Sugar House, but after a while effected his escape. At his request, some friends in New York City, furnished him with citizens clothes, where-upon he laid aside his military dress and announced to his brother his resolution of regaining his liberty.

So profoundly disgusted was he at this attempt to draw from him services which he deemed dishonorable, that he resigned his employment as a guide, and withdrew to a distant part of the country; and, it was not till after the expiration of several months, and after much entreaty that he consented to return and resume his situation. Once during the war Oakley was taken prisoner and con-fined along with his brother Isaac in the old Sugar House, but after a while effected his escape. At his request, some friends in New York City, furnished him with citizens clothes, where-upon he laid aside his military dress and announced to his brother his resolution of regaining his liberty. Averse to this proceeding, his brother endeavoured long but unsuccess-fully to convince our guide that the attempt would be fool-hardy, and that he could never be able to pass the British lines without discovery. He left the prison about noon, upon an extremely hot day of summer. By cutting one or two blankets in slips, he obtained materials out of which he twisted and prepared a robe, and by this, with the assistance of his

92 THE MCDONALD PAPERS fellow prisoners he was lowered from one of the upper stories into the street, the attention of the sentinels in the mean-while being directed to an opposite quarter by his friends, who pointed down the street, and inquire the meaning of the crowd of people there assembled. The rope was instantly drawn back, and the manoeuvre proved successful and unob-served. His first object was to reach a public house at the head of Harlem Lane, kept by the Widow Day, with whom he was well acquainted. It was about the middle of the after-noon when he presented himself to this well known and ben-evolent landlady, and threw himself upon her protection as an old acquaintance.

92 THE MCDONALD PAPERS fellow prisoners he was lowered from one of the upper stories into the street, the attention of the sentinels in the mean-while being directed to an opposite quarter by his friends, who pointed down the street, and inquire the meaning of the crowd of people there assembled. The rope was instantly drawn back, and the manoeuvre proved successful and unob-served. His first object was to reach a public house at the head of Harlem Lane, kept by the Widow Day, with whom he was well acquainted. It was about the middle of the after-noon when he presented himself to this well known and ben-evolent landlady, and threw himself upon her protection as an old acquaintance. For several minutes she wrung her hands in silent perplexity, and then informed him that her house was filled with Westchester refugees, who, if they saw him but for a moment, would recognize and remand him to prison. Regaining her presence of mind, she led him to a place of concealment. It was after sundown before her guests departed, and as it was not possible to procure a boat, she furnished our guide at his request, with some refreshments and with a cord, in order that he might form a raft for the purpose of crossing Harlem river with dry clothes. The night that came on was one of bright moonlight, and in a short time he constructed out of some rails and his rope, a tolerable raft, upon which he secured his clothes and refreshments, and then pushed out into the stream; but when near the middle of the creek, his strength which had been much impaired by sickness while in confinement began to fail, in addition to which he was attacked by the cramp. Weary and discouraged, he relinquished for a while, all further efforts to get across.

The night that came on was one of bright moonlight, and in a short time he constructed out of some rails and his rope, a tolerable raft, upon which he secured his clothes and refreshments, and then pushed out into the stream; but when near the middle of the creek, his strength which had been much impaired by sickness while in confinement began to fail, in addition to which he was attacked by the cramp. Weary and discouraged, he relinquished for a while, all further efforts to get across. At length a large bird alighted upon his raft, and after sitting still a few moments, again took wing and flew to the Westchester shore. Regarding this as a good omen, Oakley summoned up all his remaining powers, and after struggling forward for a long time with his raft, at last gained a footing on the Morrisania shore. Although scarcely able to stand upright when he reached land, and in the midst of enemies, his exact knowledge of the country enabled him to reach the American lines soon afterward.

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 93 His coolness in danger and the prestige of his well known presence and prowess, were strikingly exemplified in one of the last excursions in which he is known to have been engaged. He had been below as guide to a scouting party, from which having led it back to a place of safety, he separated at Mamaroneck; himself pursuing the road through Rye. As he was passing Rye-Neck, he saw Benjamin Griffen, a farmer with whom he was well acquainted at the door of a house which stood about one hundred yards from the highway; upon which, he passed through the gate, approached his friend, and saying that he was nearly famished, asked for something to eat, but refused to dismount.

He had been below as guide to a scouting party, from which having led it back to a place of safety, he separated at Mamaroneck; himself pursuing the road through Rye. As he was passing Rye-Neck, he saw Benjamin Griffen, a farmer with whom he was well acquainted at the door of a house which stood about one hundred yards from the highway; upon which, he passed through the gate, approached his friend, and saying that he was nearly famished, asked for something to eat, but refused to dismount. While partaking of the refreshments which were readily furnished, Griffen informed him that a party, apparently hostile, had halted on the road opposite to the house. It was in fact a detach-ment of refugee horsemen returning from Horseneck, to whom a Tory had pointed out the place where the hostile guide then was. Upon receiving this information, Oakley said at once that it was too late to retreat without discovery, and quietly finished his repast. He then grasped the reins of his bridle, drew his sword, and rode deliberately to the gate where the enemy were awaiting his approach. As he drew near he addressed the refugees with firmness. "You know who I am," said he, "and that I keep my promise; the first one among you that raises his hand against me, or offers to bar my passage, I will lay his head upon the ground rom which he never again will raise it. Clear the way." Upon this, he brandished his sword right and left over his head, and striking spurs into his horse, galloped off at speed. His well known person and character, and the cool volubility with which his threats were poured forth, confounded and discon-certed his antagonists so much, that they allowed him to pass unmolested, and when, having regained presence of mind, they attempted pursuit, it was found he had gone too far to be readily overtaken.

Clear the way." Upon this, he brandished his sword right and left over his head, and striking spurs into his horse, galloped off at speed. His well known person and character, and the cool volubility with which his threats were poured forth, confounded and discon-certed his antagonists so much, that they allowed him to pass unmolested, and when, having regained presence of mind, they attempted pursuit, it was found he had gone too far to be readily overtaken. In excursions below, particularly toward the close of the war, he often went down, the leader of the American detach-ment; and when acting only as guide, if his party encountered

94 THE MCDONALD PAPERS unexpected difficulties that endangered its safety, the officer previously in command was superseded by general consent, and Oakley was chosen in his stead to conduct the retreat, in which he was invariably successful. Upon one of these occa-sions, when closely pursued by a large body of refugees, he did not extricate his party until he had crossed the Bronx at the head of his followers, nine different times. Associating constantly, while the French Army lay in Westchester, with the gentlemen belonging to Rochambeau's staff, he took them often, when not on duty, to visit his rela-tions and friends. These young soldiers, the most elegant and accomplished of the European nobility, although from early life accustomed to the splendor and gaiety of Versailles and Paris, on their arrival in America, had at once accommo-dated themselves to the manners of the country, and over-coming ancient prejudices by urbanity and address, had acquired general popularity with the inhabitants. They have now all passed away, but among them were those whose celebrity will justify a bare mention of them here, and whose disinterested services, gratitude requires us forever to remem-ber and acknowledge.

These young soldiers, the most elegant and accomplished of the European nobility, although from early life accustomed to the splendor and gaiety of Versailles and Paris, on their arrival in America, had at once accommo-dated themselves to the manners of the country, and over-coming ancient prejudices by urbanity and address, had acquired general popularity with the inhabitants. They have now all passed away, but among them were those whose celebrity will justify a bare mention of them here, and whose disinterested services, gratitude requires us forever to remem-ber and acknowledge. Count Charles de Lameth, then assistant quarter-master-general, dangerously wounded in the following October at the siege of Yorktown; in the early years of the French revo-lution a member of the National and Constituent Assembly, republican in sentiment, and a leader of the Constitutional party. The Chevalier Alexandre de Lameth, at that time employed as an officer of the general staff, during his whole subsequent career strongly inclined toward democracy; one of the ablest antagonists of Mirabeau in the Constituent Assembly, and the fellow laborer, friend and fellow prisoner of La Fayette. Count Mathieu Dumas, then one of Rochambeau's aides-de-camp, who during the empire, became a lieutenant-general, and wrote the memoirs of the times. Count Axel de Tersen, a Swedish nobleman in the French service, remarkable for personal beauty, and elegance of manners, then also one of the French commander's aides:

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 95 distinguished in after years for a chivalric admiration of the unhappy Marie Antoinette, and whose assistance in 1791, was invoked and rendered, upon the unfortunate occasion of the royal flight to Varennes, as driver of the King's carriage. The two brothers Berthier, adjuncts in 1781, to the general staff, the elder of whom (Pierre Alexandre) was long celebrated for his devoted attachment to Napoleon, one of whose marshals he was, and under whom he became Prince of Wagram and Neufchâtel.

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 95 distinguished in after years for a chivalric admiration of the unhappy Marie Antoinette, and whose assistance in 1791, was invoked and rendered, upon the unfortunate occasion of the royal flight to Varennes, as driver of the King's carriage. The two brothers Berthier, adjuncts in 1781, to the general staff, the elder of whom (Pierre Alexandre) was long celebrated for his devoted attachment to Napoleon, one of whose marshals he was, and under whom he became Prince of Wagram and Neufchâtel. Count Charles de Damas, another of the French commander's aides, during the campaign of 1781, a bold and dashing officer, and throughout life, a faithful friend and fol-lower of the Bourbons. Association for considerable period with persons such as these, was of lasting benefit to the guide of Whiteplains, not only by imparting polish to his manners, but enlargement and liberality to his knowledge and opinons. Oakley continued with the Continental and State troops upon the lines, until the spring of 1783. After the proclama-tion of peace, he returned to agricultural pursuits, and at a subsequent period married. Like his old friend and com-panion in arms Odell, he was ambitious of being a skillful cultivator of the soil, and steadily refused to engage in polit-ical life. His original education had been such only as the ordinary country schools of that day afforded, but careful self improvement in after years, enabled him to write and speak readily and correctly. Upon the great questions which agi-tated the public mind, he invariably formed opinions for him-self, sometimes reducing them to writing. In disposition, he was sanguine, kind and sociable, and blameless in all the domestic relations: although having occupied stations of authority in early life, there was sometimes a seeming sever-ity in his manners, and where he had a right to command, he always exacted a prompt obedience.

His original education had been such only as the ordinary country schools of that day afforded, but careful self improvement in after years, enabled him to write and speak readily and correctly. Upon the great questions which agi-tated the public mind, he invariably formed opinions for him-self, sometimes reducing them to writing. In disposition, he was sanguine, kind and sociable, and blameless in all the domestic relations: although having occupied stations of authority in early life, there was sometimes a seeming sever-ity in his manners, and where he had a right to command, he always exacted a prompt obedience. During the latter years of his life, his constitution had become much impaired, in consequence of the great exposures to which he was sub-jected while in the public service. He died at Whiteplains, on the 29th of January 1805, on the paternal farm, where he

96 THE MCDONALD PAPERS first saw the light, and left six children (of whom four are still living). A stranger, traversing in these days, what was once the "Neutral Ground," and hearing for the first time recounted, the adventures of the "Three Great Guides," some of which in hardihood and success, approach the fictions of knight-errantry, might be moved to seek for their tombs, and might natural say to those around him: "Where shall I find the monuments that have been erected by the gratitude of the age to indicate the sepulchers of such men, and to commemo-rate their lives, services and virtues?" Vain would be the inquiry, unsatisfactory the research. The remains of Dyck-man were deposited in the obscure corner of a sequestered church yard at Crompond, where they repose forgotten, with-out a letter or a stone, to mark the last resting place of one of the bravest men that ever drew his sword in a just and noble cause.

A stranger, traversing in these days, what was once the "Neutral Ground," and hearing for the first time recounted, the adventures of the "Three Great Guides," some of which in hardihood and success, approach the fictions of knight-errantry, might be moved to seek for their tombs, and might natural say to those around him: "Where shall I find the monuments that have been erected by the gratitude of the age to indicate the sepulchers of such men, and to commemo-rate their lives, services and virtues?" Vain would be the inquiry, unsatisfactory the research. The remains of Dyck-man were deposited in the obscure corner of a sequestered church yard at Crompond, where they repose forgotten, with-out a letter or a stone, to mark the last resting place of one of the bravest men that ever drew his sword in a just and noble cause. Even the precise locality of the spot where his bones now moulder is, and for ever must remain uncertain. The mortal relics of Oakley were interred in the Purchase street burying ground in the town of Harrison, where unmarked and unhonored they long lay, mingling with the ashes of the peaceful children of Fox. Later, and when almost half a century had passed by, the spot of sepulture was fortunately identified, and a plain stone put up, with this inscription (all that Quakerism permits) "Cornelius Oakley, died January 29th, 1805, aged 49 years." Odell's body was placed in the Cemetery of the ancient Dutch Church on the banks of the Pocantico, near Tarrytown, in contiguity with the sepulchers of his ancestors. A small stone designates the grave, but his age, the day of his departure, and the bare fact that he was an officer of the revolution, are all the information it gives of one of New York's most faithful sons.

Later, and when almost half a century had passed by, the spot of sepulture was fortunately identified, and a plain stone put up, with this inscription (all that Quakerism permits) "Cornelius Oakley, died January 29th, 1805, aged 49 years." Odell's body was placed in the Cemetery of the ancient Dutch Church on the banks of the Pocantico, near Tarrytown, in contiguity with the sepulchers of his ancestors. A small stone designates the grave, but his age, the day of his departure, and the bare fact that he was an officer of the revolution, are all the information it gives of one of New York's most faithful sons. Had these men lived in the days of classical antiquity, poetry and art would have conspired to render them immortal, and they would have appeared in the Pantheon, along with heroes and demigods (in the society of Theseus and Hercules). At a later period they would have shone in Romance, in the company of Paladins and Princes and would have lived in

THE WESTCHESTER GUIDES 97 the same pages that have placed Amadis and Arthur upon the summit of renown. In our utilitarian age, their deeds have been suffered to fade almost from remembrance. A genera-tion that owes them so much, fails from want of information to give them recognition, and treads without reverence upon the ashes of the heroes. Names that ought to awaken ven-eration, sound in the ears of a new race as names of strangers. No one has ever depicted their exploits in painting or sculp-ture; and chronicle and song, lavish in the praise of others, are silent in respect to them. Let us devoutly hope that such forgetfulness will not be permanent.

A genera-tion that owes them so much, fails from want of information to give them recognition, and treads without reverence upon the ashes of the heroes. Names that ought to awaken ven-eration, sound in the ears of a new race as names of strangers. No one has ever depicted their exploits in painting or sculp-ture; and chronicle and song, lavish in the praise of others, are silent in respect to them. Let us devoutly hope that such forgetfulness will not be permanent.